Released on June 22, 2005, this coin commemorated the American Bison. The design featured on this $50 gold coin is based on the original design of James Earle Fraser's 1913 Buffalo nickel; also called the Indian Head nickel. The Native American depiction in this design is believed to be based on three different Native American chiefs. The coin was produced in proof and bullion and it is the first 24-karat coin ever struck and offered for sale by the United States Mint. A proof and bullion version of this coin was transferred to the Smithsonian's National Numismatic Collection at 10 a.m., June 22, 2006.
 
The inscriptions on the coin are: LIBERTY and 2006. The reverse design of this coin features the American Bison which is the original 1913 Buffalo nickel, Type 1, as designed by James Earle Fraser. The coin is inscribed: United States of America, E Pluribus Unum, In God We Trust, $50, 1 OZ, and .9999 Fine Gold.